Don Coryell was born on October 17, 1924, in Seattle, Washington. He was the youngest of four sons. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1943. That year, he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II. He trained with the 86th Mountain Infantry and later served in Japan. After the war, he attended the University of Washington. He studied physical education. He played football as a defensive back. He also boxed and won campus titles. He earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
Coryell began coaching in 1950. He held jobs in high schools, colleges, and the NFL. From 1961 to 1972, he coached at San Diego State. His teams won seven conference titles and three NCAA College Division titles. In the NFL, he coached the St. Louis Cardinals and San Diego Chargers. He developed the “Air Coryell” offense. His teams led the league in passing for several years. He was the first coach to win over 100 games in both college and pro football. He entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Coryell’s early life and education in Seattle shaped his career. His Seattle roots remained a key part of his story.
Don Coryell was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Don Coryell accumulated a career record of 114-89-1 and won 5 division titles over his 14-season career as a Hall of Fame head coach/executive.
